A WEE COUNTY woman's tireless work in promoting the rights of local tenants with "passion, dedication and energy" was recognised by the queen.

June Anderson, chair of Clackmannanshire Tenants and Residents Federation (CTRF), was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) after she was named in the New Years Honours list.

The Tullibody woman has been a member of the federation for eight years and is currently chair of the board.

She is a fierce advocate of tenants' rights and works closely with the council to ensure people's voices are heard during decision making processes.

June is also a founding member of the Menstrie Mains Residents Association and a former chair of Tullibody Community Council.

One recent idea saw her set up a tenants roadshow across the Wee County to offer access to housing information, discussions and advice from local authority and housing experts along with a chance to meet others who might be facing similar circumstances.

As a volunteer, she represented tenants in meetings as well, leading to constructive interventions and solutions.

June has championed many local causes, including care for the elderly and disabled, community resilience, homelessness, domestic abuse and community safety.

Her work has not been restricted to the local authority either as she has also contributed to national housing policy.

Craig Miller, vice-chair of the federation, said: "Everyone at CTRF would like to offer June our warmest and sincerest congratulations on her BEM award from the queen.

"I have known June for many years and I remain in awe of her passion, dedication and energy to helping so many people solve their housing issues.

"She is well-known and respected for never giving up on an issue – especially when a person is facing an injustice that needs put right."

Often, June would step in to support people in dire times of financial hardship or other difficulty.

She was "overwhelmed" to have received the award and said: "As a volunteer, I have never sought award for the work I do and the work of CTRF, but it is gratifying when it is recognised.

"Over the last weeks, I have been humbled by the messages of congratulations and well wishes that I have received from across Clackmannanshire and further afield.

"I am truly grateful for people's kindness.

"It is so lovely to hear from the many organisations I am, and have been, a member of over the years."

The rights of tenants have always been a top priority for June, who hopes to make sure everyone at CTRF takes their roles seriously.

She added: "The group works tirelessly to make sure they have a strong voice representing their needs and issues.

"There is still much to be done and I look forward to continuing my team and I's efforts in raising the profile of our federation, locally and nationally.

"We are currently recruiting for new board members and I hope that people will consider joining our Board and contributing to housing policy and rights of residents."